Transition (Communication) Support Worker

About our school

Royal School for the Deaf Derby is a unique provider of day and residential placements for deaf children and young people aged 3 – 19. We are a speaking and signing community with a qualified, competent and confident staff team working together to ensure all children and young people leave with the know-what and know-how to make the most of life beyond school.

Post 16 Department

We support many of our learners at a variety of Colleges and other education and skills placements in order for them to access the same opportunities and experiences as their non-deaf peers. Courses available can range from A-Levels, motor vehicle mechanics, construction, media studies, and small animal care and various qualification levels.

Back at base, learners continue to build their Maths and English skills, learn driving theory, take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award and bespoke careers guidance about their next steps into further education, employment or training.

The role

Transition Support Communicators (TSCs) facilitate learning through a range of support strategies such as sign communication, note taking, language modification and lip speaking. All TSCs can access free accredited training to improve their British Sign Language skills (up to and including Level 6) and gain professional status as a Communication Support Worker with Deaf People. Working hours are based on 36 hours per week for a full time communicator; working weeks are 38 per academic year with 14 weeks paid holiday leave entitlement.  TSCs need to be prepared to work at various colleges in the locality including as far away as Lichfield or Nottingham, depending on the course their learner studies.

The person

Essential: proficient British Sign Language skills and the ability to build positive and constructive relationships with children and young people. A full current UK driving licence to facilitate the transporting of students to college where required.

Desirable: Level 3 British Sign Language, qualified Communication Support Worker with Deaf people, previous experience of communicating for young people in an educational setting, contributing to individual learning plans and tracking learner progress.

At our school, safeguarding is a fundamental aspect of our ethos, ensuring that the welfare of every student is paramount. We believe that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, embedded into daily practice across all levels of the organisation. As part of our commitment, we are seeking a dedicated professional who will actively contribute to our safeguarding initiatives, fostering a safe and supportive environment for all learners. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with staff, students, and parents to uphold our safeguarding policies and promote a culture of vigilance and care within the school community.